Code of Ethics and Rules of Professional Conduct

Introduction

The Code of Ethics and Rules of Professional Conduct set forth the ethical obligations of Clinical, Professional and Provisional Professional Members of the Dance Movement Therapy Association of Australasia (DTAA). It articulates standards of practice to guide both dance movement therapists and inform the general public in a clear understanding and expectations of what is considered ethical professional conduct. The rules of conduct governing individuals and the profession of dance movement therapy have been established to safeguard professional standards and protect the public.

The Dance Movement Therapy Association of Australasia (DTAA) will adopt this (now draft) Code of Ethics and Rules for Professional Conduct (Code of Ethics) at its Annual General Meeting held on 11 October 2020. This Code of Ethics supersedes the Code of Ethics previously adopted in 2003. The Code of Ethics is subject to periodic amendments, which will be communicated to members of the Association,

Purpose of the Document

The purpose of the Code of Ethics is to clarify and communicate the professional values and standards of conduct that guide dance movement therapy practice; to provide a resource that supports dance movement therapists in ethical decision making processes; and to provide a reference to standards for use in the processing of ethics complaints. Adherence to The Code and Standards are intended to offer assurance to clients, the community, employers, colleagues, students, supervisees, the research participant, and other professions.

Ethics are apparent in the conduct of a person within their relationships. It is in the considered presence within, and in the attention given to all aspects of the client relationship, as well as relationships with colleagues, students, the profession and the broader community, that ethics is put into practice. Ethical practice begins with awareness and understanding of social, cultural and psychological influences and requires relational intelligence, sensitivity and respect. While the Code cannot guide the more nuanced and precise interactive aspects of relationships, it can provide a foundation for the cultivation of shared values and principles, and standards of practice. In the face of uncertainty and complexity, ethics helps us make more sound and wise decisions, supported by self-reflection and dialogue.

Ethics also identify the values, principles and responsibilities of all members. They promote a professional level of competence and accountability in the field of dance movement therapy as well as provide guidelines for clients, employers and professionals as to what constitutes ethical practice for DTAA members.

DTAA’s Code of Ethics can be downloaded as a PDF by Clicking Here

View Ethical Practice Resources in our Members’ section.